About KONG
Who makes KONG toys?
KONG toys are made by The KONG Company, founded in Colorado in 1976. What started as one rubber chew toy designed by a garage mechanic for his dog has grown into one of the most recognized names in pet products worldwide.
Where are KONG products made?
All KONG Rubber products are made proudly here in the U.S.A along with a few other products such as the KONG Naturals Pop-Up Incline Scratcher. Other items are made with our trusted international manufacturers and undergo rigorous product testing and quality controls measures to ensure that they meet our KONG Strong standards of excellence and durability.
What do the KONG rubber colors mean?
With our KONG rubber we have a few different colors of rubber, each color represents a different chewing ability.
The KONG puppy comes in baby pink and baby blue. This is a great choice for Puppies that are under 9 months old. We manufacture the puppy rubber to be softer than our other KONGs, and the reasoning for this is that a puppy's teeth can be very sensitive and in order to avoid puppy teeth falling out prematurely we made this rubber softer. Once a puppy has its canines fully grown in, we suggest moving up to a more durable rubber formula such as the red classic for average chewers or the black extreme, the most durable rubber for power chewers.
The KONG Classic comes in our traditional red color. This rubber is the next step above the puppy. The red rubber is more durable than the puppy and suggested for average chewers.
Our KONG Extreme is the strongest rubber we manufacture, and this comes in black. The KONG Extreme is always a great choice for any power chewer.
For senior dogs we have our KONG Senior which is Purple (Not to be confused with the purple Kitty KONG). The KONG Senior is also made of a softer rubber material, as dogs get older their teeth can also be sensitive.
Our Aqua KONG is Orange. The Aqua KONG is designed to be a water toy as it floats and has a rope, this is appropriate for average chewers.
With any KONG Rubber toy, please make sure to use our sizing guide to choose the right size KONG for your dog. As always, we suggest supervising your dog with their KONG as no dog toy is indestructible!
Is KONG a trusted brand with vets and trainers?
Yes. KONG products are widely recommended by veterinarians, trainers, and animal behaviorists, particularly for their role in mental enrichment, separation anxiety support, and appropriate chew redirection.
Choosing the Right Toy
How do I pick the right size KONG for my dog?
All KONG rubber products have sizing guides based on weight and a KONG User Guide based on breed for KONG Classic or KONG Extreme ‘snowman/bell’ shaped products. When in doubt, size up for added durability and safety, especially for power chewers! Other KONG product lines such as our interactive products come in sizes ranging from Extra small to Extra-large and are not recommended based on weight or breed as they are not advertised to be used as heavy dedicated chew toys. When choosing a ball style product, make sure that the ball circumference is larger than your pet’s jaws for safety. Again, when in doubt size up for added durability and safety!
My dog destroys every toy I give them. What should I get?
Dogs that demonstrate a preference for gnawing and chew style play may be better suited to KONG’s all-natural rubber product line available in varying rubber formulas to meet your pup’s specific chewing style needs.
For those power chewer pups, we highly recommend moving into our more durable black Extreme rubber toys. Moving up to the next size/weight group is also critical for a power chewer pup. We actually want the toy to be too big for your dog's mouth for safety. The size increases the thickness of the rubber making it harder for a dog to get leverage on the product and therefore making it less prone to destruction.
What's the difference between the Puppy, Classic, Extreme, and Senior lines?
The KONG Classic all-natural rubber (red) is the original all-purpose rubber formula developed for average chewers. The KONG Extreme all-natural rubber (black) is a more durable rubber formula developed for power chewers. The KONG Senior all-natural rubber (purple) is a softer formula designed for older dogs with more sensitive teeth and gums. The KONG Puppy (pink/blue) is the softest rubber formula KONG makes for teething puppies.
Do you make toys for small dogs or puppies specifically?
Yes. Most KONG natural rubber shapes are offered in various sizes and in a puppy-specific rubber formula. KONG also offers products in our interactive product lines in the sizes XS-XL to offer dogs of all sizes the opportunity to find the perfect sized toy!
What's the best type of toy for a dog that gets bored easily?
Toys that make your dog work for a reward hold attention longest. Treat-dispensing and stuffable toys, like a KONG Classic filled with kibble or Easy Treat, turn play into a problem-solving task rather than something a dog finishes in two minutes.
Stuffing & Usage
How do I stuff a KONG toy?
Start with something that will plug the small opening, like a treat or a smear of peanut butter, then layer in kibble, treats, or wet food, and cap it off with something sticky on top. Freezing a stuffed KONG for a few hours makes it last longer and adds a layer of challenge.
What can I put inside a KONG?
Popular options include KONG Easy Treat, peanut butter (unsweetened, no xylitol), plain yogurt, wet dog food, mashed banana, pumpkin puree, or your dog's regular kibble. Avoid anything toxic to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, onions, and anything containing xylitol.
Can I freeze a stuffed KONG?
Yes, freezing is recommended for dogs who finish a stuffed KONG too quickly. It also makes for a great warm-weather treat.
Can I put a KONG in the dishwasher?
Most KONG rubber toys are dishwasher safe on the top rack. Always check the care instructions on the specific product, since some toys with added materials like rope or fabric should be hand washed instead.
How to Clean a KONG Plush Toy
While it is recommended to clean KONG plush toys by spot cleaning the surface with a damp cloth. Fabric material toys for dogs and cats – can be washed in the washing machine – COLD water, DELICATE cycle and SKIP the dryer, the toy should come out just fine.
How to Clean a KONG Rubber Toy
Regarding care and cleaning, we suggest KONG rubber toys be washed in the sink using warm water, soap and a bottle brush or toothbrush. For truly tough gunk removal, KONG rubber toys are top-rack dishwasher safe (skip the heated dry cycle). Running the dry cycle can degrade the rubber and reduce the longevity of the toy.
Because all-natural rubber is a porous material and absorbs liquids that it comes in contact with, we do not recommend using bleach or chemicals of any kind.
How long should I let my pet chew on a KONG toy unsupervised?
We recommend supervising your pet whenever they are playing with any non-edible toy or object. Dogs' teeth and jaws are naturally designed for chewing and can damage even durable toys. As a pet parent, it's important to monitor your dog's play and chewing habits so you can intervene if a toy becomes damaged or compromised. If this happens, remove and discard the toy immediately to help ensure your pet’s safety.
What treats work best inside KONG toys?
Soft treats, peanut butter made for dogs, yogurt, canned food, wet food, kibble, Easy Treat, and homemade recipes all work well. Layering ingredients or freezing them can extend playtime.
Can my dog use a KONG toy every day?
Absolutely. Many dogs enjoy daily enrichment sessions with stuffed KONG toys as part of their regular routine. Daily use can help provide mental stimulation and encourage appropriate chewing behavior.
Are treat-dispensing toys good for fast eaters?
Yes. Stuffable toys and treat dispensing products can help slow down eating by encouraging dogs to work for their food, providing both mental enrichment and a more rewarding feeding experience.
How do I teach my dog to use a treat-stuffing toy?
Start simple by loosely filling the toy with easy-to-remove treats. As your dog gains confidence, gradually make the challenge more difficult by packing ingredients more tightly or freezing the toy.
Durability & Safety
Are KONG toys indestructible?
Every dog has a unique chewing temperament, and it is not necessarily predictable by size or breed. We understand that each dog is and will be different in their chewing temperament and how they play with and use their toys. This experience has shown us that even the smallest dog may be more tenacious than a dog four or five times the size. The fact of the matter is that no dog toy is completely indestructible given that dogs’ teeth and jaws are designed for destruction. For a dog toy to be indestructible, it has to be stronger than the dog's teeth, which could cause some major problems when a dog goes to bite it! That is why we have tried to design a wide variety of toys and products for dogs to suit various chewing styles and play needs. Our Extreme line is designed for the toughest chewers, but we still recommend regular inspection and supervision.
What should I do if my dog's KONG toy gets damaged?
Remove the toy from play immediately and discard if you notice cracks, chunks missing, or the toy becoming significantly worn down. A damaged toy can become a choking or ingestion hazard. If your toy was damaged within 60 days please contact KONG for a damaged product claim, and we would love to help you find a more durable toy option for your pet!
Is KONG rubber safe if my dog swallows a piece?
Anything ingested that is not advertised to be a treat or food product safe for pets to ingest poses a potential health risk if swallowed. If you think your pet may have ingested a fragment of any KONG toy, contact your veterinarian. Loose pieces of any toy can be harmful if swallowed.
Are KONG toys safe for aggressive chewers?
The Extreme (black) line is specifically engineered for aggressive chewers using a firmer, more durable rubber compound. Always make sure that your pet is within the weight range recommended and for heavy chewers, sizing up one or even two sizes for added durability and safety is recommended. We recommend supervision and regular toy inspection for any dog, especially those with strong chewing habits.
How do I know what kind of chewer my dog is?
Watch how your dog interacts with a new toy in the first few sessions. Light chewers mouth and carry toys without much destructive intent. Moderate chewers gnaw steadily but don't destroy toys quickly. Aggressive or power chewers will attempt to puncture, crack, or dismantle a toy or squeakers within the product in minutes, which calls for a toy built specifically for that level of use.
My dog can destroy any toy in minutes. What should I try?
Move up to a toy specifically rated for aggressive chewers rather than a standard toy, and avoid anything with fabric, stuffing, or protruding parts. A solid rubber option like the KONG Extreme product line is recommended for power pups, alongside close supervision and regular inspection for wear.
Are rubber toys better than plush toys for heavy chewers?
For dogs that chew to destroy rather than to cuddle, solid rubber holds up significantly longer than plush. Plush toys are better suited to dogs that carry, shake, or comfort-chew rather than dogs trying to dismantle a toy.
How do I know if a dog toy is safe?
Look for pet safe materials and a size appropriate to your dog's mouth. Reputable toy brands will specify recommended weight ranges and chew-strength ratings on the packaging or product listing.
When should I throw away a dog toy?
Replace a toy as soon as you notice any signs of damage, such as cracks, missing pieces, exposed stuffing, or a squeaker that has become accessible. Damaged toys can pose a potential risk to your pet’s health as a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage if pieces are swallowed. Inspect your pet’s toys regularly and discard any toy that shows wear or damage.
How do I stop my dog from destroying toys?
While no dog toy is indestructible, choosing the right toy for your dog's size, age, and chewing style can make a big difference. Dogs with powerful chewing habits typically need more durable toys such as from our all-natural rubber product lines, while puppies and gentle chewers are often better suited to softer fabric material options. Keeping toys stored away from your pet, rotating toys you give your pet access to during play time, providing regular enrichment, exercise, and offering treat-stuffable toys can help keep your dog engaged and encourage appropriate chewing behavior. Always supervise your dog during play and replace any toy that becomes damaged or worn.
Generic Questions
How do I know if my dog needs a tougher toy?
If your dog quickly damages standard interactive toys, chews aggressively, or destroys plush toys within minutes, it's time to move to a more durable option like the KONG all natural rubber products in either the classic red rubber for average chewers or the black extreme rubber line for power chewers. Always size appropriately, supervise play and replace toys that become damaged.
Why does my puppy chew everything?
Chewing is a natural behavior that helps puppies explore their world, relieve teething discomfort, and stay mentally engaged. Offering appropriate chew toys helps redirect chewing away from shoes, furniture, and other household items.
Can dog toys help reduce boredom?
Yes. Interactive toys, treat-stuffable toys, and toys that encourage problem-solving can keep dogs mentally engaged and provide enrichment activities to help reduce boredom.
What's the difference between a chew toy and an enrichment toy?
Chew toys satisfy a dog's natural instinct to chew, while enrichment toys encourage problem-solving and mental stimulation. Many KONG toys combine both by allowing treats to be stuffed inside or along the outer grooves.
How do I keep my dog interested in their toys?
Rotate toys regularly and vary the treats or recipes you use inside treat-dispensing toys. Changing textures, flavors, and play experiences helps keep toys exciting.
Should I choose a toy based on my dog's breed or size?
Both matter. Breed can provide clues about chewing capabilities and the circumference of their mouth, but their size and weight determine proper fit. Always choose a toy that is appropriately sized for your dog’s breed, and size while also considering their chewing strength. If you need help reach out to KONG!
How often should I replace my dog's toys?
Inspect toys frequently for cracks, tears, or missing pieces. Replace any toy that becomes damaged or no longer fits your dog's size and / or chewing style.
Can enrichment toys help with separation anxiety?
While they aren't a cure for anxiety, enrichment toys can help deduce separation anxiety. For severe anxiety, consult your veterinarian or a professional trainer.
My dog loses interest after a few minutes. What should I do?
Try stuffing the toy with higher-value treats, freezing it, rotating different toys, or introducing it during quieter times when your dog is ready to engage.
Can multiple dogs share the same toy?
It's generally best for each dog to have their own toy to reduce resource guarding and maintain hygiene, especially with treat-stuffable toys.
If you have multiple dogs in your household, only provide KONG toys sized for the largest and/or toughest chewer in the house.
How many toys should a dog have?
Most trainers recommend rotating a small working set of 4 to 6 toys rather than leaving a large pile out at all times. Keeping toys away from a pet’s direct access and rotating toys every week or two keeps them feeling new and helps you notice wear before it becomes a safety issue.
How do I keep my dog mentally stimulated without constant walks?
Rotating a handful of enrichment and treat-dispensing toys through the week is one of the easiest ways to add mental exercise indoors. A 15-minute session working a stuffed toy can be as tiring for a dog as a much longer walk.
How do I teach healthy chewing habits?
Understanding your dog's chewing style is the first step in encouraging healthy chewing habits. Learn about the different ways dogs chew—including destructive chewing styles—so you can choose appropriate toys and redirect your dog to safer, more appropriate chewing behaviors.
When introducing a new toy, choose a time when your dog is calm rather than overly excited. Dogs that are highly aroused or full of energy may be more likely to use a toy for destructive chewing instead of interacting with it as intended.
Can KONG toys help with crate training?
Yes. Stuffing a KONG toy with your dog's favorite treats or food can help create a positive association with the crate and keep them mentally engaged during crate time. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the time your dog spends in the crate. For an added challenge and longer-lasting enrichment, try freezing a stuffed KONG toy before giving it to your dog.
Puppy Toys
What toys are safe for teething puppies?
Look for toys made from a softer rubber formula specifically designed for developing teeth and gums, like the KONG Puppy line. Avoid anything hard enough to damage baby teeth, and avoid toys sized for adult dogs since they're often too firm for a puppy's bite strength. Since puppies grow rapidly, make sure you are sizing up the products as they grow. If you have a puppy close to 9 months that is already damaging the puppy rubber you can move into the red classic rubber formula.
At what age can I introduce chew toys to a puppy?
Puppies can start with soft, puppy-specific chew toys as soon as they come home, typically around 8 weeks old. This is also when teething begins, so appropriate chew toys become important for both dental development and redirecting chewing away from furniture and shoes.
What size toy should I get for a puppy?
Size based on your puppy's current weight, not their expected adult size. A toy that's too large can be hard for a small mouth to grip and use properly, while one that's too small can pose a choking risk, so re-check sizing as your puppy grows.
How do I stop my puppy from chewing on furniture and shoes?
Consistent redirection works better than punishment. Keep an appropriate chew toy nearby at all times, and when you catch your puppy chewing something off-limits, calmly swap it for the toy. Puppy-specific rubber chew toys are firm enough to satisfy the urge without damaging teeth.
Do puppies need different toys than adult dogs?
Yes. Puppy teeth and jaws are more delicate, so puppy toys use softer rubber and are usually sized smaller. As your dog matures into their adult teeth, typically around 6 months, you can transition to standard adult toys based on their chew style.
What's a good toy for puppy teething pain?
A puppy chew toy that can be chilled in the refrigerator provides some numbing relief for sore gums, similar to a teething ring. Soft rubber puppy toys, like the KONG Puppy line, are designed to be gentle enough for this while still holding up to gnawing.
What toys work for senior dogs with fewer or weaker teeth?
Softer rubber formulas designed for older dogs, like the KONG Senior line, put less strain on aging teeth and jaws while still offering the mental engagement of a treat-dispensing toy. Avoid very hard rubber or dense nylon toys for senior dogs with dental sensitivity.